It is time to stop ignoring the giant [pink] elephant in the room. Depression is a real deal animal to overcome. Many of us have loved ones who have and still are suffering from depression – some off and on for years on end, and right under our noses. It is unfortunate that it takes countless tragedies for society to even take notice or consider making mental health a top priority.

Just because someone is smiling on the outside doesn’t mean that they’re not crying on the inside. It is time to stop ignoring the giant pink elephant in the room.

How can we offer support to those suffering from depression?

Educate yourself on mental illness and depression.

Be a listening ear. And I mean really listen. Depression is not just a bad day or week or month, etc. It is a heavy burden that can totally break a person if it remains untreated or unreported. Do not discount the person’s feelings under any circumstances (i.e., “He/She just wants attention.”).

Offer professional help. Spiritual support is great and all, but please connect them with reputable, reliable healthcare professionals/resources for evaluation and ongoing medical care.

In our day-to-day, what are some ways to self-care?

Self-care is essential; you cannot pour from an empty cup. We must take care of ourselves. Do not be embarrassed or afraid to talk with your trusted friends, family and healthcare professionals if you’re feeling overwhelmed, “blue”, outside of the norm or are experiencing suicidal thoughts. Many have encountered depression at some point or another – more than you know.

On Depression: You do not have to suffer in silence.

It may sometimes feel that you may not have a strong support system or people in your corner who will understand or “get it”; however, the best recommended approach is to seek the outside help of trained medical professionals. In fact, you can’t afford not to. The resources are there for the taking and strongly encouraged…

On Mental Health: Don’t be afraid to seek professional medical help.

Let’s all get into the habit of “checking in” on one another…check in with yourself and check on your people.

Valerie Robinson is an award-winning writer and photographer. Based in the Washington, DC area, this HBCU alumni is a wife and mother of three who strives and encourages others to be the best versions of themselves.

Addiction and depression are real animals to overcome…this is so true. The sad part is, people this depression doesn’t happen in the black community. It is present in ALL races, ages and genders. Thank you for sharing this.

I am the current reigning Ms. Ohio Plus America and my platform is suicide awareness. I completely agree that mental illness and depression is real. People don’t take it seriously until something really bad happens. thanks for helping to spread the message.